To help relieve symptoms of metastatic cancer and extend survival time

Chemotherapy Drugs and Delivery

There are a variety of chemotherapy drugs. The choice and combination of drugs will be based on your particular cancer and reaction to drugs. Chemotherapy drugs for bladder cancer may include:

Cisplatin

Fluorouracil (5-FU)

Mitomycin

Doxorubicin

Gemcitabine

Methotrexate

Vinblastine

Carboplatin

Paclitaxel

Docetaxel

Chemotherapy for bladder cancer is most often given through an IV. It is delivered in cycles over a set period of time. A medical oncologist will determine how many cycles of chemotherapy are needed and what combination of drugs will work best.

Chemotherapy may also be delivered directly into the bladder. Intravesical chemotherapy places a liquid agent directly into the bladder. The liquid may be a chemotherapy drug or a biologic agent that provokes the immune system into launching an attack on the cancer cells.

Side Effects and Management

Though the drugs are targeted to cancer cells, they can affect healthy cells as well. The death of cancer cells and impact on healthy cells can cause a range of side effects. A medical oncologist will work to find the best drug combination and dosage to have the most impact on the cancer cells and minimal side effects on healthy tissue. Side effects or complications from chemotherapy may include:

A variety of treatments are available to help manage side effects including medication, lifestyle changes, and alternative treatments. In some cases, the chemotherapy regimen may be adjusted to reduce severe side effects. The earlier the side effects are addressed, the more likely they will be controlled with a minimum of discomfort.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.